GEO-TREES brings together scientists, research institutions, and experts from around the world to establish a network of reference forest sites where conventional field measurements will be combined with state-of-the-art remote sensing and 3D digitisation technologies. The project envisages more than 100 reference sites representing a wide range of forest types across the globe.

One of the major challenges in global forest assessment is the uncertainty associated with estimating biomass and carbon stocks from satellite data. GEO-TREES addresses this challenge by generating high-quality reference data collected directly within forest stands, enabling satellite-based biomass and carbon stock models to be calibrated and validated.

The monitoring approach combines multiple levels of data collection:

🌲 detailed tree inventories,
📡 terrestrial laser scanning (TLS),
🚁 airborne LiDAR scanning,
🛰️ satellite Earth observation,
📊 3D modelling and analysis of forest structure.

Terrestrial laser scanning enables the spatial structure of trees to be captured in exceptional detail and precise 3D models to be created. These models can be used to determine woody volume and other parameters required for more accurate estimates of above-ground biomass. Airborne LiDAR can then extend this information from individual research plots to much larger areas.

We believe that the future of forest monitoring lies in the integration of field measurements, 3D scanning, LiDAR, and advanced spatial data processing.

For Xplore4D, participation in this international collaboration represents another step towards connecting science, modern technologies, and practical solutions for environmental monitoring.

The ultimate goal of GEO-TREES is to establish an open and sustainable global system of high-quality reference data that will contribute to more accurate monitoring of forest biomass, carbon stocks, and their changes over time.

The conference provided a platform for young researchers and students to present their scientific work, new findings, and innovative solutions in the fields of forestry, nature conservation, and related disciplines.

As a partner of the event, we presented the Award for the Most Innovative Research Work, recognizing an original approach, advanced methodology, and the potential to apply research results in real-world practice.

Supporting young professionals who bring new perspectives, ideas, and technological solutions is highly important to us. The connection between science, innovation, and practical applications plays a key role in advancing Slovak forestry and developing better solutions for the future of our forests.

Using advanced 3D laser scanning technology, we captured the precise spatial representation of the tree, from the shape and dimensions of its trunk to the complex structure of its crown. The result is a detailed digital twin that enables the tree to be studied, documented, and presented in a virtual environment.

The acquired data represent far more than an attractive visualization. They provide an accurate digital record of the tree’s current condition, which can serve in the future for monitoring its development, identifying changes, assessing stability and health status, and planning professional care.

Through digitalization, we are also preserving the appearance of unique natural and cultural heritage for future generations. Even if the tree’s appearance changes over time, the detailed three-dimensional model will remain a permanent record of its current form.

The pine tree bears the name of the renowned Slovak writer Ľudmila Podjavorinská, with whom it is historically connected. It therefore represents a unique combination of natural value, history, and cultural heritage.

The aim of this cooperation is to connect the professional expertise of national park specialists with the advanced technologies of Xplore 4D and jointly develop new approaches to monitoring forest ecosystems, protected areas, landscapes, and wildlife.

In practice, we plan to utilize technologies such as UAVs, thermal and multispectral imaging, 3D laser scanning, spatial data analysis, and GIS technologies. These tools can support more accurate monitoring of forest health, documentation of landscape changes, mapping of natural values, and the protection of valuable habitats and wildlife species.

The memorandum also creates opportunities for joint projects, knowledge exchange, field research, and testing of innovative solutions directly within the conditions of the national park.

We consider our cooperation with the Administration of Malá Fatra National Park an important step towards applying modern technologies not only in research but also in practical nature conservation.

The signing of the memorandum marks the beginning of a concrete and long-term partnership aimed at better understanding, monitoring, and protecting one of Slovakia’s most valuable natural areas.

By signing the memorandum, we established a strong foundation for long-term cooperation that will connect the university’s scientific knowledge and expertise with the advanced technologies and practical experience of our company.

Together, we aim to focus primarily on research and monitoring of ecosystems and wildlife using UAVs, remote sensing technologies, 3D technologies, spatial data, and GIS analyses. An important part of the cooperation will also include sharing research infrastructure, advanced equipment, and collected data.

The memorandum also creates opportunities for joint scientific research projects and grant applications, the development of new solutions applicable in practice, and the preparation of joint professional and scientific publications.

We believe that real progress is achieved by connecting scientific knowledge with practical applications. The combination of the expertise of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of Matej Bel University and the technological capabilities of Xplore 4D can bring new and more accurate approaches to monitoring nature, understanding landscape changes, and making better decisions in environmental protection.

For us, the signing of the memorandum is not merely a formal act, but the beginning of a concrete collaboration whose results we aim to gradually transfer from research into real-world applications.

Participants had the opportunity to experience firsthand how drones, 3D scanning, virtual reality, and other advanced technologies are used today to acquire accurate information about forest conditions, monitor their development, and create detailed digital models of the real world.

Virtual reality attracted particular attention. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in a forest environment, explore Banská Štiavnica from a completely different perspective, or experience a unique flight over the landscape from the wings of an eagle. For many, it was their first opportunity to experience technologies that combine nature exploration, education, science, and entertainment.